2008 Mitsubishi Lancer: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution makes its return to this Japanese brand's small-car lineup. All '08 Lancers are redesigned this year and are larger in all dimensions compared to the 2002-06 versions. Front-wheel-drive Lancer DE, ES, and GTS trims are offered with a 152-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a choice of a 5-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). GTS has a firmer suspension and sporty body trim. The Lancer Evolution is all-wheel drive and comes in GSR and MR trims, each with a 291-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. GSRs have a 5-speed manual transmission; MRs have a 6-speed automatic. Lancer's safety features include ABS, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Traction control and an antiskid system are exclusive to the Evolution. Lancer ES, GTS, and Evolution are available with a touch-screen navigation system and a 30 gigabyte hard drive for storage/playback of digital audio files. Evaluations of Evolution models are based on preview test drives.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus, Mitsubishi Lancer, Saturn Astra, Scion xB, and Subaru Impreza.